Boss on squad matters

20 June 2013

David Weir is confident of establishing a competitive squad for League One next season, insisting he will have no qualms about fielding some of the younger members of the Blades squad.

Looking ahead to next season, Weir commented: "I can't hide the fact I have no experience of League One. It is new to me but I have spent the last few years watching a lot of football, from the top level into non-league, so I would like to think I have a broad spectrum of the game.

"I want to integrate some of our own youngsters before we start looking elsewhere extensively, I know what talent we have here so that is my starting point. I want the youngsters here to see the clear pathway to the first-team that will always be there should anyone be ready to step up.

"I then want to add to that with more good players to complement what is already available. I am not adverse to anything that will help me get the best possible squad together to be competitive in League One.

"I would like to think I have got a good reputation within the game, so although it isn't about a quick fix, I would hope managers would trust me with their players should we choose to use the loan market. Life is about learning. I know I haven't got all the answers in life, but I am always willing to learn."

The new Blades boss continued: "I am under no illusions about the work that lies ahead, but I use people like Brendan (Rodgers) and Malky (MacKay) as great examples of where I aspire to be.

"I never look back, I always think about the future because I can influence that, the past has happened and I am genuinely delighted to be here.

"There are definitely similarities between the Blades and Everton, they both play in cities with two clubs, with one red and the other blue.

"It is a working people's club and they demand hard work and determination. I have been brought up the same way and I just can't wait to get started."